As Honda likes to spin it, the Element entered new territory
when it debuted during the 2003 model year by providing
a multi-functional cargo area, innovative and versatile
seating, a durable and dirt-friendly interior, energetic
4WD performance and outstanding value.
Well, they weren't that far off the mark with their description.
The big, versatile Honda Element can pretty much do everything
they say it can. For 2005, the package is enhanced with
new color combinations and more standard safety equipment.
Available Models
The 2005 Honda Element is offered in three models: DX, LX
and EX.
Interior Features
The interior of the 2005 Honda Element is designed to accommodate
passengers and cargo. It has a flat floor like a pickup
and an enclosed rear area like an SUV. In addition, the
rear seat's 30-lb sections swing up to the side or remove
to expand cargo space.
Midlevel LX models are improved this year. They add two
features previously reserved for the EX trim level: power
mirrors and cruise control. Other LX features include cloth
upholstery, a center console, power windows and door locks,
a tachometer, intermittent wipers and a rear defogger.
The top-line Honda Element EX has air conditioning, an
AM/FM CD player, an interior air filter, remote keyless
entry, map lights and visor mirrors.
Exterior Features
The 2005 Honda Element has an upper liftgate and drop-down
tailgate. It also has rear-hinged back side doors that are
shorter than the front doors and don't open or close independently
of them.
The EX model gets a variety of new color combinations this
year. Silver EX models are now accented by blue cladding
panels and Red and Magnesium EX models have black cladding.
Also available on EX models are three new colors: Cargo
Khaki, Magnesium Metallic and Rally Red.
Performance
The Honda Element uses an i-VTEC 2.4-liter dual-overhead
cam inline 4-cylinder engine. It will produce 160 horsepower
at 5500 rpm and 161 lb-ft of torque at 4500 rpm. There are
two transmissions offered: 5-speed manual and 4-speed automatic.
The i-VTEC system combines Honda's patented VTEC system
with Variable Timing Control (VTC) to enhance low rpm torque
while extending high rpm horsepower.
Front-wheel drive and all-wheel drive are both offered
on 2005 Element models. The AWD system doesn't include low-range
gearing, but AWD models do get a tilt/removable glass "skylight"
over the cargo bay.
Safety and Security
All 2005 Honda EX Elements will now feature antilock brakes
and front side airbags as standard equipment.
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